Église de Saint-Pantaléon

The Église de Saint-Pantaléon is a Romanesque church whose interior is marked by a wide transept that opens into three semicircular apses. The central apse is carved directly from the rock face, creating a distinctive structural element.

The church was founded in the 11th century and expanded in the 12th century with the addition of a northern side aisle. A votive chapel was added in 1727, reflecting the site's continued spiritual importance across the centuries.

The name honors Saint Pantaleon, a figure whose devotion held particular meaning in this region. The rock-hewn spaces around the building served as a refuge where families could grieve and pray for their deceased children.

The building sits at a crossroads near the cemetery and is accessible via departmental roads D148 and D104 that connect nearby villages. Accessibility depends on weather conditions, as the rock-carved steps can become slippery after rain.

Latin inscriptions on the central apse date from the 6th century, predating the Romanesque structure itself. This reveals that a place of worship already existed at this location during the early medieval period.

Location: Saint-Pantaléon

Inception: 1727

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

GPS coordinates: 43.88230,5.21426

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:22